#OpenTheDebates! Include All Qualified Candidates in Presidential Debates

The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD), the organization in charge of the presidential debates, has been keeping qualified candidates off the debate stage.

Created by the Republican and Democratic parties, the CPD has set up rules making it almost impossible for independent and third party candidates to be included in the debates. Americans deserve to hear from everyone who will be on their ballot.

Starting in 2020, candidates who qualify on enough state ballots to possibly win the presidency should be invited to participate in the presidential debates.

Currently, candidates must average 15% or higher in 5 predetermined national polls. Most national polls exclude third party candidates, making it impossible to achieve the required percentage of support. Even third party candidates getting taxpayer money for their campaigns and qualifying for Federal Election Committee matching funds are not being allowed to participate without polling over 15%.

Presidential debates have been critical in deciding who goes to the White House. They are watched by millions of Americans and give the public a closer look at the candidates. The presidential debates should not be dictated by any party. Now is the time to shake things up and give Americans the debates we deserve.

Join us in calling on the CPD to allow all candidates who qualify on enough state ballots to possibly win the presidency to participate in the presidential debates. Please sign and share the petition now so we can get the debates we deserve in 2020.